Studying French in school was the first step I took to becoming fluent in another language, but choosing to study abroad in Paris was the next step to truly adapting to the French culture and way of life.
Paris is known as the city of lights! At night when it gets dark, the Eiffel Tower, the most famous monument in Paris, lights up at every hour on the hour! It really is one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen. Living in a new city for the year has taught me a different way of life. People walk and eat much more slowly in Paris. It is a new lifestyle that I have come to enjoy. Although there are a number of Starbucks in Paris, I prefer to drink an espresso at a café. In Paris, people take their time. Parisians have a reputation for being late, but living in Paris has given me an appreciation of time and observing the world around me.
Traveling offers insight into the way people act, think, and talk. From hand gestures to the way people greet each other, there is a lot to learn when you enter a new culture. Whether reflecting on my small town in Massachusetts, or Paris, France, I've found that there is so much to be learned from each culture. When you interact with people from around the world, you have the ability to understand the world a little more.
Although I had done some traveling to other countries in high school, I had yet to go to another country where I spoke the language. I was very eager to practice my French with the local Parisians. What I have learned is that if you really want to learn a new language, you should travel to the place that speaks it! You can start off by testing yourself on the simplest of phrases such as ordering food or even just greeting the people around you.
